How to clean and prevent bathroom mold in humid climate?« Back to Previous Page
|
We've lived in our Jumeirah villa for 2 years and just noticed a bunch of black spots growing along the bottom of the bathroom wall that faces the outside. It’s been so humid lately that the walls never seem to fully dry out. What’s the best way to clean this and stop it from coming back for good?
|
|
The black spots are likely mildew or mold thriving on the persistent moisture. For a surface-level clean, a solution of white vinegar or a dedicated bathroom mold remover applied with a scrub brush is effective. Always wear gloves and ensure the room is well-ventilated during cleaning.
To stop it from returning, you must address the humidity. This is a common challenge in Dubai's climate where hot, humid air meets cool, air-conditioned surfaces, creating condensation. Use an exhaust fan during and for at least 30 minutes after every shower. If the fan is weak or missing, installing a properly sized one is crucial. Wiping down wet walls and tiles with a squeegee after use also removes the moisture mold needs to grow. For a bathroom with an exterior wall, check the grout and sealant. Over time, these can degrade, allowing moisture to seep into the porous wall material behind the tiles. If the growth is persistent or covers a large area (generally over 1 square meter), the moisture source may be more than just condensation. A professional inspection can identify if there's a hidden leak within the wall or inadequate waterproofing, which is a common construction issue here. In such cases, superficial cleaning won't work; the underlying problem must be fixed first, followed by proper remediation of the affected materials to prevent it from returning for good. |
Please log in to post questions/answers: